In celebration of National Arts Month 2026, Colegio de San Juan de Letran recognizes alumnus Erasmo “Sonny” Espiritu, veteran photojournalist, for his sustained contribution to the art and discipline of photojournalism.

Espiritu, an alumnus of the A.B. Communication Arts program of the Colegio and former photographer of The LANCE, built his foundation in visual storytelling within the campus newsroom before advancing to mainstream media. His professional career includes roles at Today (1993–1994), Evening Paper (1995–1996), and Manila Standard (1997–2019), where he served as Senior Photographer. In 2023, he contributed to the Daily Tribune and is currently connected with the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) – Office of the General Manager.

Espiritu’s work spans front-page national coverage, human interest stories, environmental reportage, and major public events. Known for capturing decisive moments under demanding conditions, he has consistently delivered images that communicate context, emotion, and historical significance. His professional rigor is anchored in formal training in photojournalism, media ethics, and international news gathering, including advanced seminars conducted by industry leaders and global practitioners.

Beyond daily news coverage, Espiritu has served as principal photographer for notable publications, including The Manila Hotel: True Heart of the Philippines coffee table book (2022), and has participated in exhibitions such as Art of Style: A Fashion x Art Fair (2024–2025). His portfolio reflects a balance of journalistic precision and artistic sensibility.

His consistency has earned numerous recognitions in local and international competitions, including multiple Photo of the Year awards, Philippine Press Institute citations, Catholic Mass Media Awards, and international distinctions judged in Japan and Malaysia. In 2022, he was honored as a “Grandes Figuras” Awardee — one of Letran’s 400 Outstanding Men and Women — during the Colegio’s quadricentennial celebration at The Manila Hotel.

For Espiritu, photojournalism is not merely documentation but an artistic responsibility. While media platforms evolve, he maintains that credibility, ethics, and accuracy remain the defining standards of professional practice. Each frame, he believes, must withstand time — preserving truth beyond the immediacy of headlines.

The Colegio celebrates Sonny Espiritu this National Arts Month for his enduring legacy in capturing history — one frame at a time.

Arriba!